5 comments about Everyday Fashions of the Thirties As Pictured in Sears Catalogs (Dover Books on Costume & Textiles).

1. This is another useful research book, like all the ones that I've seen in this series, it's a valuble source for pictures of middle class, everyday clothes. It has pictures of women's accessories and shows some men's and children's clothes, which many period fashion books tend to ignore. Highly practical book for theatrical costumers.



2. I own four books in this 'Searies' (Twenties, Thirties, Forties, Fifties) and I cannot recommend them highly enough. They are jam-packed with a great mix of pictures in good proportion which show the morphing of fashions over the decade(s). Dominant are women's clothing (formal, casual, dresses, hats, coats, shoes, with some undergarments, sportswear, nightwear, swimwear). Then there are smatterings of accessories (handbags, watches, gloves, powder compacts, belts, jewelry). Also some menswear and a small amount of childrenswear. All clothing is being worn.
   
   All pictures are black and white and have a certain (pleasant) level of graininess. What you get are the original pictures, prices and descriptions from the catalogs. There is only a very small amount of introductory material (just a one page 'Publisher's Note' for the Thirties).
   
   Changes over the series:
   The transition from drawings (all very good and realistic) to photos occurs in the Thirties.
   The variety of accessories appearing in the Twenties is largely reduced by the later decades (Fifties almost exclusively clothing and hats with some shoes).
   
   There's only one problem with these catalogs...you can't order the contents!



3. Purchased this book soon after it was published in a Baltimore art museum.
   
   Modern Fashions and hairstyles today reveal absolute mediocrity. No style. No class. More to offend the eye than to please. Trousered females with short cropped hair and men whose hair is unkept wearing garments ill made. Swimsuits that leave nothing to the imagination worn by people who one just wishes were not visable because they keep themselvs as they do their awful cloths.
   
   This book is a treat to the eye. Wonderful cloths that show modern apparel was not alawys the norm.
   
   For the student of History this book is a valuable source of information on the cloths of the period, for which I purchased my copy. No scoloarly work but merely taken from the Sears catalogs of the time. Undergarments and accessories, shoes to hats, everything is shown here.



4. I have to agree with the other reviewers. Modern fashion tends to look "dumbed down". I've owned this book for some time and refer to it often. Not to copy, necessarily; but to find inspiration. There are clothes available that still look "classic". Many of the original Sears pictures were in color but are reproduced here in b&w. Many of the reproductions have an overly fuzzy look. I suppose that's why the book is only $15 instead of 2 or 3 times as much. The Schiffer Sears series has sharp color images but you pay twice as much. You could buy the original Sears catalogs on eBay (I have a few) for even more. Your choice. This book will give you a good overview of the fashion changes during the decade and you can take it from there. Also of note are the accessories. A New Deal/FDR watch! A Buck Rogers watch! This isn't camp, either, but back in the days when this was serious stuff. Highly recommended!



5. If you want a comprehensive book that immerses you in the world of fashion from the thirties, this is the one. It is authentic and beautifully laid out and depicts numerous costume items from the thirties, though mostly focusing on women. The pictures depict everything from dresses to shoes, hats to gloves; the women's hairstyles, makeup, undergarments, and overall looks give the reader the most authentic possible view of fashion and the aesthetic ideals of the time. The catalogue also shows the prices and features descriptions that include fabric and color. There are some pictures of men's and children's fashions. This book is thorough and unbelievably beautiful. The whole series of Sears catalogue fashions by decade is amazing. I recommend them all!

3 comments about Keys to the Cellar: Strategies and Secrets of Wine Collecting.

1. Meltzer is a veteran of the wine auctions and his tips for buying at auction are invaluable. He also provides very solid ideas as to how to start your cellar ( the actual collection of bottles, not the construction of the thing) depending on your interests, lifestyle and approach to wine.
   
   I found it most informative because of the wealth of tidbits and asides that he adds to it. He has been around for a while and it shows. This is a book i would give to someone who wants to seiously get into wine, and i would definetly buy it again.



2. Peter Meltzer is a wine and food writer who lives on the Upper East Side and in the Hamptons. He wrote the very useful PASSPORT TO NEW YORK RESTAURANTS in 2001. He has been "Wine Spectator's" auction correspondent for more than twenty years.
   
   Meltzer has written a practical approach to building a fine wine collection that fits your preferences, lifestyle, and budget. He covers:
   
   -- Buying and selling wine at auction.
   -- Bidding at online wine auctions.
   -- Using the Web to calculate value or locate wines.
   -- Buying effectively fromwine merchants.
   -- Storing and enjoying wine short and long term.
   
   The book includes the "Wine Spectator" auction index which covers over 500 frequently auctioned wines.
   
   Meltzer emphasizes the importance of understanding what you really want to achieve from your wine collection. He urges beginners to start out buying only enough wine for the first year, and gain experience using hints from his book. The hints will be useful no matter what your objectives. He has suggestions and cautions for folks looking for bargains, and warnings for folks at the top end.
   
   For example, Meltzer describes three sales within a few months of one another in 2004. In the first, at NYWinesChristie's, a case of the Leroy La Romanée 1953 sold for $49,350; just a month later at the same auction house, another case of the same wine sold for $19,975 and then a third sold at Acker Merrall & Condit for $17,550. He discusses the factors that might explain the differences in price, including documented storage history or lack thereof, bidder's panic, and more.
   
   In a recent interview he points out that collectors at lower price points can benefit from buying at auction: "What's really heartening is that the market has polarized, It's the trophy wines at the top for which people will duel to the depths of their pockets, while the lower end of the price spectrum tends to be sane, sound, and accessible. You can buy off-vintages and unsung wines at below retail, often for well under $500 per lot."
   
   One caution: don't rely solely on Meltzer before buying a free-standing, temperature and humidity controlled wine storage units. Meltzer lists seven "highly rated brands": Breezaire, Le Cache, Vinocraft, Avanti, Haier, Danby and Marvel. Five brands should not have been included:
   
   - Breezaire makes cooling units, but it does not make wine storage units
   - Avanti, Haier, Danby and Marvel make coolers which control temperature but not humidity.
   
   Read Meltzer, but continue your research at a good reseller like Galt Wine, or at the manufacturer's websites like Avanti, Danby, Haier, Summit, Sub-Zero, U-Line, Marvel, or Viking, or on one of the wine discussion groups like the Wine Lovers Page.
   
   On the positive side, Meltzer answers questions online at "Wine Spectator" in a straight forward, practical manner:
   
   "Q: If I buy wine at auction from a reputable house and open it to find the wine oxidized or just generally shot, is that just part of the risk assumed in buying at auction, or can I ask for a refund?
   
   "A: Auction catalogs generally stipulate that you are buying "as is," leaving you little recourse if a wine is oxidized. However, auction houses are not in the business of making enemies, and exceptions to the rule may be made. If you uncover an oxidized bottle, immediately bring it to the attention of the auction specialist and provide him with a sample to evaluate. (This won't work, of course, if it's been several years since your purchase.) As a rule, auction houses carefully inspect consignments prior to acceptance, so danger signs, such as low fill levels, inappropriate color, protruding capsules and so on, should be detected in advance, causing the lot to be rejected."
   
   Meltzer's book is an excellent resource if you have any interest in buying wine whether at retail or at auction. It won the "2006 Georges Duboeuf Award for Wine Book of the Year". Kevin Zraly, a leading wine educator and author of WINDOWS ON THE WORLD COMPLETE WINE COURSE describes the book well: "KEYS TO THE CELLAR is fascinating, informative, and easy to read; with this book, you will truly understand the ins and outs of buying wines for your personal cellar."



3. This book explained a lot about Wine Auctions, Wine Investment, and how to look for wine bargains. I was looking more for how to cellar the wine, temperatures, humdity, location, how to build the cellar (starting with wines to purchase or how to think about starting a cellar) for truly wine drinkers and it lacked this information. If you want to invest in wine, great book.

5 comments about The Gun Digest Book of the 1911: A Complete Look at the Use, Care & Repair of the 1911 Pistol, Vol. 2.

1. This is a very interesting book about the workings of the 1911 and I learned a lot from it. It would have been even better if the pictures were in color, but I guess it would cost a lot more....
   I also think that the book should have more information about the trigger/sear/safety and the adjustment/replacement of those parts...



2. These reviews are MERGED reviews of two different volumes of a book. I believe people are purchasing Volume 2 and expecting the content of Volume 1. There is minimal overlap between Volume 1 and Volume 2.
   
   Volume 1 (ISBN 0873492811, 334 pages, 2001) has information on the history, calibers, disassembly, cleaning, competion, reloading, and testing. At the end of the book is a series of reviews of various 1911 models.
   
   Volume 2 (ISBN 0896892697, 336 pages, 2006) has information on barrels, mud tests, penetration, longevity, tactical illumination, holsters, defense, and competion. As with Volume 1, a series of 1911 reviews are at the end. These are different from Volume 1.
   
   Volume 2 is not meant to replace Volume 1. In fact, in Volume 2, the author writes, "this book is not designed to replace Volume 1..."
   
   I wrote Amazon.com an email indicating that this reviews are mixed up between Volumes 1 and 2.
   
   Both volumes are the best collection of information about the Model of 1911 in book form out there. However, they are two different volumes. I recommend starting with Volume 1 (search by the ISBN above) and if you crave more 1911 information, purchase Volume 2.



3. IU am doing an upgrade project on a Colt Series 80 1911 .38 Super and this book is a very good reference on what to do to get the best results, along with lots of other useful info on the 1911 and its clones.



4. Very detailed view of the modern 1911 handgun. A great read for any new or experienced 1911 owner.



5. If you like paying for advertising this is a must have.
   
   Even the table of contents was worthless since it only listed "Chapter 1; Chapter 2" and so on; never mind what the chapter is about. The front half has a few good tidbits but the back is a lot of "I owe it to the gun manufacturer to say good things" advertising reviews.

5 comments about Seven Things That Steal Your Joy: Overcoming the Obstacles to Your Happiness (Meyer, Joyce).

1. This is an excellent book. Joyce Meyer made it so simple and easy to understand. She used her own personal experiences which makes you feel that her recommendations are realistic and effective.You can totally relate to this book.I highly recommend this book.



2. Upon reading this book as part of my Church's Women's Ministry "Book of the Month", I was well-pleased with the basic approach, simplistic illustrations, and personal sharing of a well-loved personality. Mrs. Meyers is commended for "making plain" the challenges of life and how we contribute to the absence of joy that hinders the Christian walk. When placed before us for honest review, the examples, suggestions and advice call for change and/or the acquiring of new perspectives on "things" and one's response to "things" that occur. The book is recommended for group study and as a companion to Christian self-help programs.



3. I enjoy the cd so much, I have passed it around to others. I think that in todays world we lose sight of what is important. What is important is that we enjoy life because that's what God wants for each of us. Joyce explains in great depth and makes God your every day friend and companion, not just for Sundays. The cd's are inspirational and when I am feeling a little low they always pick me up. As always, Joyce is very gifted at putting God's word to work in your every day life. I would highly reccommend these cd's if joy and peace is what you want your life to be.



4. Joyce Meyer spoke to my soul throughout this book and it changed my life for the better. It has relieved me of my anxiety and taught me to trust in the One who made me.



5. I'm already a fan of Joyce Meyer and love her books, but I've got to say that this is probably my favorite. I love how she points out specifically seven things that our joy stealers and then specifically seven things on HOW to fix them and reclaim your joy. The book is very well-written, simple to read and understand, and an easy read. Love it.

No comments about The Official Blackbook Price Guide to United States Coins 2009, 47th Edition (Official Blackbook Price Guide to United States Coins).

5 comments about Classic Wristwatches 2008/2009: The Price Guide for Vintage Watch Collectors Over 1300 Models! (Classic Wristwatches: A Catalog of Vintage Timepieces & Their Prices).

1. ...but this is not a guide you would want to use daily. This is an ok book for higher end collector watches, but very limited.
   
   I was hoping it would cover some or much more of the $200, $300 & $400 watches. Example: Only 8 models of Hamilton watches are shown.
   
   I do like pictures: very nice, color photos. Also gives some history on the manufacturers of the watches presented in the book.
   
   Nice coffee table book, but for daily reference you need a "Complete price guide to watches" by Engle/Gilbert/Shugart.



2. This book covers a very broad selection of watches and is especially strong in the major brands - Omega, Patek, JLC, IWC. Rolex, etc as well as some of the more "working class" timepieces which today are very collectible.
   
   Some of the calibre and associated information on some of the listings are not totally accurate but on balance, this soft cover resource provides a good point of reference to check value and collectability of many classic watches.



3. Very nice and informative book. Quality is fine and price is fair. I strongly recommend it for watch enthusiasts like me.



4. I just went over the book, and I was a bit disappointed.
   Picture for money is quite interesting, thanks to a lot of images for small bucks, but the goods of the book is just that.
   
   Interesting are the pages with the history of the maisons, that provide some useful hints about not very well known producers.
   
   Organization of the book is quite disappointing, though: the models depicted are put on paper at random, with no age or value order.
   As far as I could understand, those are the watches that were estimated by some kind of trader during the year, so no section covers completely the model range of a brand. If you need to evaluate a specific piece, most of the time you have to guess comparing it with similar age-feature watches of the same or other manifacturer.
   Some brands aren't even in the book (Breguet? Rado?) while for other you just get 6 models.
   
   The book is useful, anyway: with few dollars it can help you in identifying a particular brand that may catch your imagination, or browse through many hundreds of pictures, to find ideas for particular models, shapes, or features you may like to have in your collection.
   
   If possible get a new copy: I bouth an used one, and the binding glue went bad: pages started to part from the book.



5. The 2008-2009 edition of CLASSIC WRISTWATCHES packs in features of over 1300 models, including good-sized color photos of each watch, descriptions of manufacture, case and appearance, and company histories. This blend of price guide, identification guide and watch history is outstanding for any collecting watches, and is a highly recommended pick for any library catering to collectors.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch

5 comments about Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns.

1. There are so many quilt blocks to choose from. None of the block patterns are in color, but it will still be easy to choose appropriate fabrics to use.Each of the black and white block designs are illustrated very well in great detail utilizing various textures of shading to represent the types of fabrics used.The wide variety of dark and light contrasting designs in each block effectively indicate a vast assortment of fabrics such as prints,florals,checks,stripes,solids,dots,and so many more.In fact,these black and white illustrations might actually make it easier to choose fabrics to use, because they are so straight foward and distinct.



2. This books has loads of information, but it is in black and white and the fonts make it difficult to hold one's attention. I would not purchase this again.



3. I agree with those who have reviewed before me who believe that, as a reference, this book is ideal and a must-have for your collection. WARNING: I JUST got my hardcover volume and excitedly started thumbing through it - anxious to identify what the scores of quilt blocks I have purchased at farm and estate auctions were named - only to find that pages 241 through 256 were missing. To add insult to injury, I've also found that (presumably to make-up for the loss of the earlier 16 pages) there are two groups of pages 257 through 272, repeated one-after-the-other. So, I must go through the process of returning this copy, hoping that the NEXT one I receive will be correct. OVERALL - this reference is an amazing feat and kudos to Ms. Brackman and those who assisted her. This post is merely a long-winded warning to CHECK YOUR BOOK ONCE IT'S DELIVERED!



4. I think those who gave this book a low rating were unclear on its intent and purpose. This book is NOT a how-to book, or a book of pretty pictures on how to use quilts in decorating. It is not a book on how to design a quilt, although it's very useful for designers with the savvy to imagine or play with colorway variations, and to figure out how to assemble blocks, how to calculate patch sizes, and how to figure yardage requirments.
   
   This book is a reference primarily on how to identify quilt blocks. It is encyclopedic in its listing of just about every block pattern published in the US during the time period it covers. If you're trying to figure out the name of a block you've seen, or if you're trying to get your creative juices flowing, Brackman's book is just the ticket. I feel it's an essential part of the library of any designer or anyone with any interest at all in quilting history.



5. I was thrilled to find this book, but extremely dissapointed to find that more than a half dozen pages were missing. Tried ordering another, but the same was true for the second purchase.

3 comments about Wayne Goddard's $50 Knife Shop, Revised.

1. I own both editions of this book. Wayne is a personal friend, and my mentor in knifemaking. It can be intimidating to read some publications and see all the high-tech machinery that some makers use. This book shows that people can develope their passion for making knives without spending a fortune. It is clear and concise, and takes alot of the guesswork out of being a beginner. Wayne learned knifemaking by trial and error, before there were books, magazines and videos on the subject. This book is a must have in the library of any knifemaker. I read mine constantly for reference and inspiration.
   
   Craig "MADKAT"



2. Wayne's first version of this book was the first knifemaking book i purchased. Wayne has guided me and been my mentor and friend from the first (approx 4 yrs ). This latest version is one of the best books a beginner could get. All the fotos and diagrams are in color which greatly helps in understanding the lessons. It has new fotos and diagrams all in color. Although this book has approx same number of pages as the original, it seems to contain 50% more info in it. I would reccommend this book to all knifemakers...beginner and experienced. Definitely a 5 star book.



3. If you want to FORGE a knife this is the book for you....If you want to BUILD a knife===>There are others more suited for that

5 comments about Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods, Sixth Edition.

1. I purchased this book for a graduate level course in family therapy. I found it very helpful in explaining the important theories of family therapy. It also highlights therapeutic techniques and provides vignettes of how the theory might apply in a real life situation. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a basic theoretical background in family therapy.



2. I used this book for a master class. It has great over views of family therapy theory. Well worth reading.



3. This book is well written, very readable, and superbly organized. The chapters are concise and it never gets wordy or boring. And excellent introduction to family therapy for the beginner.



4. I asked my professor for an updated book that gave a large overview of the field of family therapy. Well laid out and shows a variety of different paradigms -- their optimal and nonoptimal techniques, lens, etc.



5. This book gives excellent overview of multiple methods of family therapy. I needed it for a class, but I will be keeping it because of it's easy use and my future in family therapy. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested or who will be going into therapy of any kind, family, individual, couples, etc.

5 comments about Sugar Bust for Life!... With the Brennans: Cookbook and Companion Guide.

1. Sugar Bust for Life! is based on the diet principles from the Sugar Busters Cut Sugar to Trim Fat book. Ellen Brenan the author of Sugar Bust for Life! was the consultant and publisher of the original Sugar Buster's book. The book Sugar Busters describes a healthy way of eating to gain vitality and lose weight. Sugar Bust For Life! expands on the book with a ton of information to make the Sugar Buster way of life simple!

   The Sugar Bust for Life! book includes over 400 recipes, menus, an extensive supermarket shopping list with brand names, a glycemic list of foods, detailed information on the program, low fat modifications and even a list of acceptable red wines!

   The recipes range from simple appetizers to savory entrees. Each recipe was carefully formulated to maximize your taste experience yet help you lose weight, control cholesterol, and improve your health by using ingredients that have a low to moderate glycemic level and little refined sugar.

   Appetizers include Oysters Rockefeller, Crabmeat Mariniere, Fresh Salsa and Mexican Layer Dip. Soups include basic stocks, Red Bean Soup, and Cream of Broccoli. Tomatoes and Wine, Ketchup and Alfredo are among the sauces. Breakfast dishes, salads and salad dressings, grilling and marinades, side dishes and vegetarian fare are also included. The entrees are extensive ranging from Baked Chicken Supreme to Lasagne to Steak Diane. Over 400 recipes and all made with easy to find ingredients and simple to prepare!

   The Brennan's include 2 weeks worth of meal plans and suggestions on how to maximize your weight loss. They also have a wonderful section of brand names to look for in your supermarket to help make, selecting healthy choices easy. And they include a list of hidden sugars to beware of.

   Another welcome section to the book is a list of acceptable wines you can drink in moderation, while following the Sugar Busters program. Theodore Brennan is the co-author of the book and owner of Brennan's restaurant of New Orleans. His brother James, a wine expert and connoisseur, selected the wines. Brennan's restaurant has won numerous awards, for its fine wine cellars. The wines selected are the best choices that are acceptable within the Sugar Busters guidelines.

   The book Sugar Bust for Life! was formerly called Sugar Less for Life! Unfortunately (...)is selling these two books together as a set when they are the same book! The Brennan's do have a another book out called Sugar Bust for Life with the Brennan's Part II. It's also available through (...). I just received a copy, and like its sister book, it looks wonderful!

   Sugar Bust for Life! With the Brennan's is certainly a delicious easy way to lose weight and get healthy!




2. Collaboratively compiled by Ellen and Theodore Breenan, Sugar Bust for Life!: Cookbook And Companion Guide is a collection specifically for those concerned with weight loss, energy levels, diabetes and cholesterol control, and wanting an easy, healthful, culinary lifestyle. From Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup; Shrimp Stuffed Artichoke Vinaigrette; Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya; and Dijon Mustard Coated Sirloin Steak; to Pistachio Parmesan Sauce; Lemon Broiled Red Snapper; Barbecue Oven Smoked Brisket; and Maude's Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie, Sugar Bust For Life! features more than 400 recipes, menus, a Red Wine List, Brand Names, and more. Also very highly recommended is the companion cookbook by Ellen and Theodore Breenan, Sugar Bust For Life! With The Brennan's: Part II (0966351924 ... ) offering an additional 300 recipes, easy one-dish meals, an updated shopper's Brand Name Guide, and more.



3. My husband started on SugarBusters almost a year ago, after my boss lost 50 lbs on it. We bought the SugarBusters book and also the cookbook. Never used any of the recipes in either. Instead, I was cooking only a meat and several veggies for each meal, and we were getting a little burned out. THEN, we found this in a bookstore! Everything we've tried has been terrific, not to mention easy. Hubby has lost 55lbs, thanks to SugarBusters and regular exercise. We're eating better tasting food than we ever have, and it is healthy, to boot! The shopping guide is extremely helpful and more comprehensive than the one put out by SugarBusters. I have since given at least 5 copies of this as gifts, along with Sugar Bust for Life Part II.



4. This book is light reading and lacks knowledge sharing of glycemic foods. I was not looking for a Dr.'s book on food and recipes but this book was not fullfilling for me. It encourages the use of the 'bad' fats. It does encourage low glycemic foods and low sugar foods. What I am trying to share is that I bought two books at the same time, the other by "GALLOP" - Living the G.I. Diet, and found this one to be greatly lacking by comparison.
   Just one person's opinion - All the best



5. Sugar Bust for Life!... With the Brennans: Cookbook and Companion Guide
   Wonderful recipes,. Lousiania cooking for weight loss and diabetes. How terrific!!! Love this. Made several recipes and they were delicious..